Through the power of storytelling Dilla is helping to change the narrative locally and nationally about Chicago's value to the world. He has been named 2022 Chicago Tourism Ambassador of the Year by Choose Chicago, the tourism agency of the city.

Shermann “Dilla” Thomas is an American TikToker and self-taught historian who first became known for leading historic walking tours of Chicago. [1][2][3]

108K Followers, 3,547 Following, 2,588 Posts - Shermann Dilla Thomas (@6figga_dilla) on Instagram: "Chicago Urban Historian. ΩΨΦ Wife ΔΣΘ Dad of 7. Union Strong. *Learn with me * Chicagomahogany.com"

Chicago historian and Influencer, Shermann "Dilla" Thomas, has been featured on the front page of the Chicago Tribune and he has also been covered by the Chicago Sun-Times and Block Club Chicago. He has appeared on local Chicago news outlets, including NBC 5, ABC 7, WGN, Fox 32, WCIU 26 to name he few.

Jan 14, 2022 · A 40-year-old father of seven, ComEd area operator and union chairman: It’s not the typical CV for a TikTok sensation, yet that’s a fairly precise — if not exhaustive — description of Sherman “Dilla” Thomas.

Nov 14, 2024 · Popular Chicago historian Shermann Dilla Thomas had a six-figure day job at ComEd; then he took the CEO's suggestion and ended up canned.

Mar 16, 2025 · Dilla has become a Chicago social media sensation by going viral on TikTok. His 60-second history videos on everything Chicago have been viewed over 20 million times, and he has amassed a following of 210K followers across all social media platforms.

Our founder, Shermann "Dilla" Thomas, is a fascinating blend of modern historian, culture worker and public utility employee. His 60 second history videos on everything Chicago have been viewed over 8 million times, and he has amassed a following of 150K followers across all social media platforms.

If there’s a phrase that sums up both the greatness and the challenges of Chicago, it’s the signature statement of Chicago urban historian, Shermann “Dilla” Thomas; “Everything dope about America comes from Chicago.”

Affectionately called "Dilla," Chicago Historian Shermann Thomas is a fascinating blend of a modern historian, cultural worker, and public employee. Dilla has become a Chicago social media sensation by going viral on TikTok.